Known for her career-changing act as Nakusha in Laagi Tujhse Lagan, Mahhi was last seen on Colors’ Balika Vadhu and is waiting to make a comeback with a good TV show.

In a candid chat with Tellychakkar, the petite actress spoke about Balika Vadhu, husband Jay, family planning, comeback, controversies and more.

Why didn’t Balika Vadhu work out the way it was supposed to?

Firstly, the foremost reason for the show not doing well was fluctuation of time slot. It was bought down from 8 PM to 6.30 PM and later to 6 PM. This development confused people and they lost connectivity. Though it was popular and well-written, it wasn’t marketed well.

Do you regret taking up the project?

Not at all. I have no complaints. I enjoyed being a part of it. I am proud to be associated with Balika Vadhu.

What kind of shows do you wish to do in the future?

I like the concept of Naagin and supernatural drama. I wish to play women-centered characters. It’s my dream to work with Balaji Telefilms. They truly know the formula to make TV shows a big hit.

You have lived a luxurious life, while that’s not the case on the sets. How do you manage it?

I have lived an average life. I belong to a middle class family. I have always dreamt of wearing designer clothes and now I thank God for blessing me with such a beautiful life. I have worked hard to reach this level. I agree that the ‘set life’ is different, but I make sure that I get comfortable with it.

Out of sight is out of mind and you took quite a long time to make your comeback. Was it a conscious decision?

I took a long break because I wasn’t getting good offers. In between, I did reality shows. I don’t want to do TV shows just for the heck of it. I can’t compromise with my career.

Have you ever gone to producers to seek work?

Never.

When do you plan to have a baby?

Jay (Bhanushali) and I are concentrating on our respective careers.

Are you a possessive wife?

I am possessive but not an insecure wife. And I think every woman is possessive towards her husband. I don’t fear losing Jay. He can’t stay away from me for more than half an hour. My love is too strong to lose him.

Do controversies surrounding you and Jay affect your relationship?

It doesn’t as I strongly believe in karma. If someone does a bad thing to you, it will eventually fall back on them. My focus is on my work and family. I don’t pay attention and waste my energy on such things.

As Jay is constantly occupied with work, don’t you feel lonely?

I have a set of good friends, family and my pets. I am a dotting wife who likes to take care of the house. I make sure that everything in our house is well managed.

Any regrets in life?

I regret trusting people. I am an emotional person and get hurt when people misunderstand me.

Do you consider newcomers as a threat?

I think actors like me, Ankita Lokhande, Ragini Khanna, Drashti Dhami and others have created a niche in the industry. Though I have done fewer shows, people still recognize me. People don’t remember newcomers, but they still connect with us.

How comfortable are you enacting intimate and kissing scenes onscreen?

I am not comfortable doing it as my family would watch me. I don’t wear short clothes in front of my in-laws.

Are you fine watching Jay kissing onscreen?

Aurat ka dil bohot bada hota hai... but such decisions have to be taken anyway.

All the best, Mahhi!